SOCIAL SCIENCES

Protecting Patron Privacy: Safe Practices for Public Computers

by Matthew Beckstrom
Libraries Unlimited. 2015. 140p. index. ISBN 9781610699969. pap. $50; ebk. ISBN 9781610699976. PRO MEDIA
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This is a helpful little volume for practicing public librarians looking to beef up their patron privacy knowledge or practice. Beckstrom (systems manager, Lewis & Clark Lib., Helena, MT) covers the subject from start to finish, discussing issues such as the technical aspects of how patron information data is collected by websites to suggestions for how librarians can actively educate their patrons on protecting their privacy. There are often step-by-step instructions, allowing even those with little prior experience to implement Beckstrom's advice. Another useful addition is policy examples for administrators looking to improve their procedures.
VERDICT This guide will be extremely beneficial to librarians working without the benefit of robust technology support departments, as it contains clear direction that can be implemented by nonspecialists. It will also be beneficial for librarians who are interested in increasing their patrons' understanding of Internet privacy, and certain chapters will be directly valuable to patrons themselves.
Reviewed by John Helling, Johnson Cty. Lib., KS , Oct 15, 2015
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